4 March 2003
BROWNE DECLARES A THAW ON FUEL POVERTY
Des Browne, MP, the Minister with responsibility for Social Development, today reminded people aged 60 and over to claim their Winter Fuel Payment of up to £200 before 31 March 2003.
The Minister said: "More than a quarter of a million people have already received their Winter Fuel Payment. Most people aged 60 and over are entitled to this help but claims have to be made before the end of March.
"Winter Fuel Payments, along with other steps such as the Warm Homes Scheme, provide real help in ensuring that some of the most vulnerable people in society don’t suffer as a result of the cold weather.
"Most people received their payment before Christmas but I urge anyone who has not yet claimed to do so now."
Claims can be made by ringing the Winter Fuel Payment Help line on 0845 915 1515 (0845 601 5613 for text phone users). Claim forms are also available in social security offices and online at
www.ssani.gov.ukNOTES TO EDITORS:
- People who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland and aged 60 or over during the week 16-22 September 2002 are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment. Claim forms can be obtained from the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline on 0845 915 1515 (0845 601 5613 for text phone users). Calls are charged at a local rate and the line is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Claim forms are also available from local social security offices, the Benefit Shop in Castle Court, Belfast and from the Social Security Agency’s website.www.ssani.gov.uk
- Payment does not depend on the amount of your income or savings and you don’t have to pay tax on it.
- The Warm Houses Scheme aims to create warmer and healthier homes for elderly people, those on low incomes and people with disabilities. Grants are available for insulation measures to private sector households where the occupants are on income or disability-based benefits and including central heating for pensioners on certain income-related benefits.
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